Kiwanis sponsored Hendricks Family Circus

When you think about taking your child to the Kiwanis sponsored Hendricks Family Circus April 15 and 16, please keep this in mind. Animals in entertainment are not volunteers, and they do not want to be there.

Circuses that have animals in entertainment do not send a very clear message. The Hendricks Family Circus advertises “Elephant Acts, Performing Camels, Dancing Lions from China, and Racing Pigs.” What could be great about any of those acts? These animals live their lives in cages and are often abused and mistreated. Kids are tricked into believing that the animals are well taken care of and are happy. Supporting an industry like this sends a message that we as consumers don't care about what goes on “behind the scenes.”

Supporting this industry teaches our children that compassion does not come first. Children are our responsiblility, and it is up to us to teach compassion and provide entertainment for them that is creative and positive.

The Bible gives us dominion over animals. Surely this means that we should protect them, not exploit them or use them for profit! Please do not support this industry. It says on the ticket, “This circus fights drug abuse.” If you want to donate to drug abuse, do it directly, not in the name of animal abuse.

Claire McLean

Peachtree City

[McClean is a teacher in the Fayette County school system.]

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